C-Suite: Heath Ward

by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) 1,024 views 

Class of 2018 C Suite Heath Ward Executive Director Springdale Water Utilities

Achievements: Ward oversees the day-to-day operation of a utility that purchases roughly half a billion gallons of water a month from Beaver Water District and serves about 105,000 people. He was named Manager of the Year in 2017 by the Arkansas Water and Wastewater Managers Association. Before joining the utility in 2013, Ward spent 17 years working in the poultry industry.

What is it that drives you in your career? The desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

What’s the best book you’ve read this year? “The Call” by Adam Hamilton.

When it comes to your company, what are you most proud of? Our people. They are the most engaged and committed people I have worked with.

What characteristic should every leader possess? Integrity and courage.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career thus far? Collectively, we were the first utility to win the Governor’s Quality Award for Performance Excellence in business in 2018. It was an amazing team effort.

What is your biggest passion, and why? Leading people. People drive everything, good or bad, and are often undervalued as a commodity. Under the right leadership, the most average people can be empowered to do amazing things.